Why Does a Cocktail Cost $13?

The best bars in America serve amazing classic and original drinks made with the freshest ingredients, the finest alcohol and a bewildering selection of ice. But often what's even more attention-grabbing is the price. It's not unusual to spend $13 or more per cocktail.

While at first blush that seems rather high, what most people don't take into account is all the hard work and hours of preparation required to produce a perfectly crafted tipple. But instead of us telling you about this process, we thought you'd like to see it for yourself.

For our very first Liquor.com video, we spent a few days at San Francisco's legendary Bourbon & Branch filming the staff, led by bar manager Jayson Wilde and general manager Ian Scalzo, as they prepare for a typical night. You'll get an unprecedented look behind the scenes of one of the world's top establishments and find out just how much effort is put into making each and every drink.

This is the beginning of many more interesting short films we'll be creating, which will offer unique perspectives on the universe of cocktails and spirits.